Improper installation of a neon sign caused a small fire Monday night at Hi-Way Pizza, 340 E. College Ave.

Alpha Fire Chief Robert Kauffman said the fire, which caused no injuries, started when rain shorted out the sign, causing it to smolder at about 7:30 p.m. Firemen had to remove a piece of the sign and smash a small hole in the front of the pizza parlor to extinguish the fire at about 8 p.m.

Store Manager Thomas Raiser estimated the damages at about $2,500. The company that installed the sign has agreed to pay for the damages, Raiser said, but he declined to give the company's name.

Robert Yosua, one of the cooks, said Raiser smelled smoke. When he was unable to locate the source, Raiser ushered the pizza place's four patrons outside, and the fire department was called to the scene.